Nuts Trading License in Dubai: Cost and Requirements
Global demand for nuts continues to rise, driven by health-conscious consumers, the snack food industry, and expanding food processing sectors. Dubai sits at the crossroads of the world's largest nut-producing and nut-consuming markets, making it one of the most strategically valuable locations for traders in this category. Whether you are sourcing cashews from Vietnam, almonds from California, or pistachios from Iran, establishing a nuts trading business in Dubai gives you access to over two billion consumers across the Middle East, Africa, South Asia, and beyond.
This guide covers everything you need to know about obtaining a nuts trading license in Dubai, with a specific focus on setting up at Dubai South Business Hub Free Zone under Activity Code 4721.92.
Why Dubai for Nuts Trading?
Dubai handles approximately 80% of the Middle East's re-export trade, and its food commodity sector is one of the fastest-growing segments within that volume. The UAE imported over USD 1.2 billion worth of edible nuts in recent years, with a significant portion re-exported to regional markets. Dubai's world-class port infrastructure, including Jebel Ali Port, one of the ten busiest ports globally, provides unmatched logistics capability for bulk commodity traders.
The government's commitment to food security, combined with zero corporate tax on qualifying free zone income and 100% foreign ownership in designated zones, makes Dubai an exceptionally competitive base for international nuts traders.
What the Nuts Trading License Covers
Under Activity Code 4721.92, a nuts trading license in Dubai authorises the holder to engage in the retail and wholesale trade of nuts. This includes, but is not limited to:
Raw and roasted nuts (peanuts, cashews, almonds, walnuts, pistachios, hazelnuts, macadamia)
Shelled and unshelled varieties
Packaged and bulk nut products
Mixed nut assortments and trail mixes
Import, export, and re-export of nut products
Distribution to retailers, wholesalers, and food manufacturers
The license falls under the Trading category and is issued as a Trading License. It does not cover processing or manufacturing activities; if you intend to roast, flavour, or repackage nuts at a production level, a separate industrial or processing license may be required.
Who This License Suits
The nuts trading license at Dubai South Business Hub Free Zone is well suited to:
International nut importers and exporters seeking a regional hub
Commodity traders diversifying into food categories
Entrepreneurs launching a branded nut product for GCC retail markets
Existing food businesses adding nuts to their trading portfolio
Re-export specialists targeting African, South Asian, and Eastern European markets
Key Stats at a Glance
Infographic: Nuts Trading in Dubai South Free Zone
Activity Code: 4721.92
License Type: Trading License
Foreign Ownership: 100% permitted
Estimated License Cost: From AED 12,500 per year (subject to package)
Setup Timeline: As fast as 3 to 5 working days
UAE Nut Import Value: Over USD 1.2 billion annually
Re-export Reach: 180+ countries via Jebel Ali Port
Corporate Tax on Qualifying Free Zone Income: 0%
Setup Costs and Steps
Setting up a nuts trading company at Dubai South Business Hub Free Zone involves the following typical costs:
Cost Component | Estimated Amount (AED) |
|---|---|
License fee (annual) | From 12,500 |
Registration and administration fee | 1,500 to 3,000 |
Visa allocation (per visa) | 3,000 to 5,000 |
Virtual office or flexi-desk | Included in select packages |
Warehouse or storage facility (optional) | Varies by size and term |
Costs vary depending on the business package selected, the number of visas required, and whether you need physical warehouse space. It is advisable to request a tailored quotation directly from the free zone authority.
Step-by-Step Setup Process
Step 1: Choose your business activity and confirm it under Activity Code 4721.92
Step 2: Select a company name and verify its availability
Step 3: Submit your application with required documents (passport copy, visa page, business plan if required)
Step 4: Receive initial approval and pay the license fee
Step 5: Obtain your trading license and company incorporation documents
Step 6: Open a corporate bank account
Step 7: Apply for residence visas if needed
Step 8: Begin trading operations
Licensing and Compliance Requirements
Beyond the core trading license, nuts traders in Dubai must comply with several regulatory requirements:
Dubai Municipality Food Safety: Importers and distributors of food products must register with Dubai Municipality and comply with UAE food safety standards under Federal Law No. 10 of 2015 on Food Safety
Emirates Authority for Standardisation and Metrology (ESMA): Nut products must meet UAE product standards and labelling requirements
Customs registration: Traders must register with UAE Customs to import and re-export goods through Jebel Ali or Dubai International Airport
Halal certification: Required for certain nut products entering GCC retail markets
Annual license renewal: The trading license must be renewed each year to remain active
Get Started
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